Make kids feel good about themselves!
The better children feel about themselves, the
greater their chances are for success in school. A positive
self-image begins at home. Involve your kids. Listen
to them. Value them . . . because kids are people, too.
Let everyone know what's happening
. . . and when.
Display a calendar in a well-traveled area of you home, and chart
all activities. Children's awareness of time and space
is essential for strengthening organizational skills through planning
and sequencing.
Your kitchen is a valuable learning
center.
When you prepare a meal, you plan, measure, combine, and divide.
Involve your children in kitchen experiences. Putting anything
together, from a peanut butter sandwich to chocolate chip cookies
to a full meal, calls for social cooperation as well as for basic
skill references.
Let your child see you read.
Each time you read a book for you own personal benefit, you serve
as a positive role model for your child. Find time to read
a magazine or newspaper, or indulge in a captivating book.
Read to your children!
If they are small, read the countless array of books available
at the library. Read road signs and landmark titles. If you
have older children, cite an interesting article from the newspaper
or a magazine. Read it aloud and discuss it.
Which did they like better, book or
movie?
With video recorders so readily available these days, we can now
read a classic novel and then rent the adapted movie. Believe
it! Children love to be critics and will often voice a preference
for the book. This activity is a rewarding experience for
the whole family!
Enrich your child with "life"
experiences.
Children mature as they expand their knowledge of the world beyond
the home. There are a variety of activities available. Take
them to the zoo or to a museum. Attend a concert or play
designed for children. Turn your shopping trips or outdoor
walks into learning experiences.
Attack those one word mumblies!
Does this sound familiar? "Hi, how was school today?"
"Fine." "What did you do today?" "Nothing."
You just led your child into the "one word response"
trap. Lead your kids into conversation with the phrase,
"Tell me about your day."
Strive for a balance in TV viewing.
Beyond its reasonable use as pure entertainment, television expands
children's knowledge of the real world. Know what your children
watch. Guide them into positive choices, such as nature
series, children's book adaptations, etc. When nothing valuable
is on, turn the set off!
Last updated: September 7, 2000